employment

Employees are increasingly suing multiple companies under a theory of joint employer liability. Often, “Exhibit A” to these lawsuits is the written agreement defining the business relationship between the alleged joint employers of the employee.

Because government agencies, legislatures and courts have responded differently, legal departments should be aware of changes in the law that may affect common contracting arrangements, including the franchisor/franchisee relationship.

While there are similarities when it comes to protecting consumer and employee information, knowing some key differences can help in-house counsel institute preventive measures and limit damaging litigation if disaster does strike.

Perhaps no other subject represents a more treacherous legal obstacle course than the use and protection of private employee information. Federal and state regulatory bodies are not only taking an aggressive stance on breaches of customer data, but also the misuse of employee or candidate data by employers.